TEACHING ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES FOR FUTURE LAWYERS

Abstract

The article analyzes the specific features of teaching English for Specific Purposes to future law students in the context of globalization, European integration, and the growing demand for internationally competent legal professionals. It emphasizes that English proficiency today is an integral component of a lawyer’s professional culture and a necessary condition for successful communication in international legal practice. The study highlights that the main goal of ESP instruction is not only to develop language knowledge and skills but also to form the ability to apply them effectively in professional contexts – during negotiations, in court hearings, when drafting legal documents, and while providing consultations to foreign clients. The paper discusses methodological and pedagogical approaches that integrate linguistic, legal, and cultural content, ensuring the development of professional communicative competence. Considerable attention is given to the use of interactive and innovative teaching methods, including case studies, role plays, business games, debates, simulations of trials, and integrated interdisciplinary lessons that combine foreign language and legal studies. The use of authentic legal materials contributes to mastering professional terminology and developing analytical and argumentative skills. The article also focuses on the implementation of modern educational technologies – digital platforms, online resources, mobile applications – which help personalize the learning process, increase students’ motivation, and simulate real professional communication. The author stresses that the development of intercultural competence plays a decisive role in the professional growth of law students, enabling them to understand legal systems, customs, and communication styles of other countries, and to function successfully in multicultural environments. Teaching English for Specific Purposes to future lawyers, therefore, becomes an essential factor in forming highly qualified, competitive, and globally oriented specialists capable of solving complex professional tasks in English and effectively participating in international cooperation.